49ers Open to Trading Trey Lance Ahead of Roster Cutdown Deadline
In a surprising turn of events, the San Francisco 49ers are reportedly open to trading quarterback Trey Lance before the roster cutdown deadline. According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, the 49ers are looking to find a new home for Lance where he can shine and excel.
The 49ers traded up to select Lance with the third overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, making him the future of the franchise. However, due to injuries and the emergence of other quarterbacks on the roster, Lance has fallen down the depth chart.
After sustaining a season-ending ankle injury in Week 2 of the 2022 season, Lance was replaced by Jimmy Garoppolo. This year, Brock Purdy was named the starter for the 2023 season after an impressive rookie campaign. Lance and Sam Darnold competed for the backup job throughout training camp, with Darnold ultimately winning the spot.
With limited playing time and development opportunities, Lance’s trade market is reportedly not very active. NFL executives have valued him at an early Day 3 NFL Draft pick, indicating a lukewarm interest.
Lance was reportedly devastated by the news of his demotion, which led him to be absent from Wednesday’s practice. However, both head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch expect him to play in the team’s preseason finale against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Speaking on KNBR’s “Murph & Mac,” Lynch expressed his belief that Lance will remain with the team for the regular season. However, he did acknowledge that if a favorable trade opportunity arises, the 49ers will consider it.
Despite the potential for a trade, Lynch emphasized that the team’s focus is on having Lance return and contribute to the team’s success. The organization remains happy with the young quarterback and wants to nurture his talent.
It remains to be seen if any team will be willing to take a chance on Lance and provide him with the opportunity to showcase his skills. The 49ers have until Tuesday’s roster cutdown deadline to make a decision on his future.
As the situation unfolds, fans and analysts will be closely watching to see if a trade materializes or if Lance will remain in San Francisco for the 2023 NFL season.